Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? My One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp is the answer! This dish packs bold flavors, using simple ingredients you likely have on hand. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a meal that’s perfect for any night. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze! Let’s dive into the details for this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Flavor Enhancers
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, juiced and zest grated
Additional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Optional: 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
When I prepare One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp, I focus on using fresh ingredients. Fresh shrimp offers the best taste. I always peel and devein them for a clean bite. Unsalted butter is my go-to. It melts beautifully and lets the garlic shine.
For flavor, I add garlic. Minced garlic gives a strong taste, and I always use four cloves. Red pepper flakes add heat. You can adjust the amount to fit your spice level. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish. I use one whole lemon for the best flavor.
The broth adds moisture and depth. I prefer chicken broth, but vegetable broth works too. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If I want to make the dish colorful, I add halved cherry tomatoes and asparagus.
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smooth and easy. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish quick and flavorful. You can find the full recipe for more details.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
– Rinse and pat dry shrimp.
– Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
Start by rinsing 1 pound of shrimp under cold water. This helps clean them and removes any excess salt. Next, pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key to getting a nice sear later. Now, sprinkle salt and pepper on the shrimp. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavor.
Cooking Process
– Melt butter in a skillet.
– Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes.
– Cook shrimp until pink and opaque.
Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Watch as it melts and starts to froth. This is when you add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir for about a minute. You want the garlic fragrant but not brown.
Next, add your seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque when done. This is a sure sign of perfectly cooked shrimp.
Bringing it All Together
– Add lemon juice and broth.
– Incorporate optional ingredients if desired.
– Simmer and finish with parsley.
Once the shrimp are ready, it’s time to add flavor. Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon and pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth. This adds moisture and depth. If you like, toss in some cherry tomatoes and asparagus. Cook everything for an extra 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies tender and warmed through.
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You now have a delicious One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp ready to enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the previous section.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensure shrimp are fully thawed for even cooking.
– Use fresh garlic for better flavor.
When cooking shrimp, thaw them before you start. This ensures they cook evenly. Place frozen shrimp in cold water for a quick thaw. Fresh garlic makes a big difference. It adds a stronger taste than jarred garlic. Just mince the cloves right before cooking.
Flavor Enhancements
– Adjust red pepper flakes for spice preference.
– Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil.
Red pepper flakes can change the heat level. Add more for a spicier dish or less for a milder taste. Try fresh herbs, too. Thyme brings an earthy flavor, while basil adds sweetness. Both can enhance the dish in their own way.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve directly from the skillet for a casual presentation.
– Plate individually with lemon wedges.
Serving from the skillet feels relaxed and fun. It invites everyone to dig in. If you want a fancier look, plate each serving. Add lemon wedges for a pop of color and fresh flavor. This makes the dish look inviting and bright. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change the main protein in this dish. Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different twist. Chicken cooks well in the same garlic butter, while tofu absorbs those rich flavors. Try adding different vegetables too. Bell peppers or spinach add color and nutrients. You can mix and match to suit your taste.
Flavor Variations
To switch up the taste, try using lime juice instead of lemon. It gives a fresh zest that’s fun and bright. You can also experiment with different spices. Paprika adds a smoky warmth, while cumin brings an earthy flavor. Feel free to play with spices to create your perfect dish.
Serving Style
This dish is versatile when it comes to serving. Serve the shrimp over pasta or rice for a heartier meal. The sauce clings beautifully to these bases. Another great option is to pair it with crusty bread. The bread will soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce, making every bite a delight.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. I find that it’s best to eat them within 2-3 days. Shrimp can lose their flavor over time, so enjoy them soon.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to eat leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop. Use low heat to warm them up. If you heat them too fast, the shrimp can turn rubbery. You want them tender and juicy, just like when they were fresh.
Freezing Guidance
You can freeze this dish, but fresh is always best. If you decide to freeze, omit the vegetables before freezing. This keeps the texture right when you thaw and cook them later. Enjoy your One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp at its finest!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook shrimp?
Typically, it takes 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking time helps keep the shrimp tender and juicy. Overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure they are fully thawed and dried before you start cooking. Thawing helps them cook evenly. Patting them dry prevents excess water from splattering in the pan.
What should I serve with One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp?
This dish is great served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Pasta soaks up the garlic butter nicely. Rice adds a nice base, while crusty bread is perfect for dipping. Each option enhances the meal and makes it more filling. You can also add a side salad for freshness. For the full recipe, check out the section above.
This blog post covers everything you need to know about making One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp. You learned the key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best flavor. With options for variations and serving ideas, you can personalize this dish. Remember, fresh ingredients and proper cooking will make your meal shine. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the tasty results! Cooking should be fun and easy, so dive in and savor every bite.
